Seattle Public Schools

3142 International Student Exchange

The School Board recognizes the value of cultural and academic exchanges. Such experiences provide international exchange students with a balanced understanding of our country and provide U.S. students with a broad world perspective. 

Students visiting our state for a short stay (B-2 visa), such as a vacation or visit with friends or family, may not enroll in school in the district. However, with prior written permission from the school, these students may visit classrooms and attend school-sponsored events. 

If the district accepts international exchange students who come to the U.S. for a long-term visit (J-1 or F-1 visas) with the intention of attending school may register to attend school in the district through the sponsorship of a host family. 

The district will admit such international exchange students when admission does not adversely impact the instructional program of the district. The standard guidelines for registration and enrollment apply. 

The Superintendent is authorized to develop procedures for this policy. The procedures may cover, but are not limited to, the: number of international exchange students, selection of international exchange organizations, timing of placement process, district expectations of international exchange organizations, school expectations for international exchange students, school responsibilities and provisions for international exchange students with F-1 visas.